NY's next free fishing day is Sept. 27

A Special Opportunity to Connect with Nature

New York State is offering a unique opportunity for residents and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors on September 27, which has been designated as the next Free Fishing Day. This event is especially meaningful because it aligns with National Hunting and Fishing Day, a day that celebrates the state’s rich angling heritage and the many waterways available for exploration.

“September 27th free fishing day is particularly special because it coincides with National Hunting and Fishing Day, a celebration of the incredible angling opportunities our state provides,” said DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “Free fishing days are the perfect time for newcomers to learn to freshwater fish or for experienced anglers to bring others outdoors to enjoy the many abundant waterways across New York.”

This annual event has a long history, dating back to when Congress designated National Hunting and Fishing Day in 1972. The purpose of this day is to encourage people to engage with traditional outdoor activities, appreciate natural resources, and recognize the role that hunters and anglers play in conservation efforts.

In addition to promoting outdoor recreation, Free Fishing Days also support Governor Hochul's "Get Offline, Get Outside" initiative. This initiative aims to improve physical and mental health by encouraging New Yorkers to disconnect from digital devices and spend more time enjoying nature and socializing outdoors.

Accessing Fishing Gear and Resources

One of the best parts of Free Fishing Day is that you don’t need to own a fishing rod to participate. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) partners with libraries across the state to offer a fishing rod lending program. Patrons can borrow a rod while checking out a book, making it easy for anyone to try fishing without the initial cost of purchasing equipment. For more details on the program and a list of participating libraries, visit DEC’s website.

For those new to fishing, the I FISH NY Beginners' Guide to Freshwater Fishing is an excellent resource. It covers everything from rigging a fishing rod to identifying fish species and understanding local regulations. Additionally, DEC’s Places to Fish webpages provide valuable information for planning your next trip.

Fishing enthusiasts can also take advantage of the HuntFishNY app, which includes a feature called “Tackle Box.” This tool offers freshwater fishing regulations, boating access, and stocking information through a map-based interface. Users can also get driving directions to state-operated boat launch sites and access offline information when cell coverage is limited. The app is available for download on Google Play and the App Store.

Important Information About Free Fishing Days

It’s important to note that while no fishing license is required on Free Fishing Days, all other fishing regulations remain in effect. This means that anglers must still follow size limits, catch-and-release rules, and seasonal restrictions.

The final Free Fishing Day for 2025 will be held on Veterans Day, November 11. On these days, both residents and non-residents can fish without a license. However, anyone aged 16 or older must have a valid New York State fishing license when not participating in a Free Fishing Day. These licenses are valid for 365 days from the date of purchase.

For more information on purchasing a fishing license, visit DEC’s website. Additionally, the New York State Department of Health provides guidance on which fish are safe to eat and how often they can be consumed. Anglers can find this information by visiting the DOH’s website and searching by waterbody location.